Pipeline Will Bring Jobs to County

February 8, 2017

A major natural gas pipeline slated to cross through Tyler County will bring more jobs and enhance the region's economy as workers buy goods and services from local businesses.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently approved the $4.3 billion Rover Pipeline system that will send Marcellus and Utica shale natural gas through portions of Tyler, Marshall, Hancock, Monroe, Belmont, Jefferson and Harrison counties before it crosses the Buckeye State on it's way to Michigan. Once completed, the 36-inch diameter pipeline will get the region's abundant natural gas to energy hungry markets. Pipeline officials have set their sights on completing the project in 2017.

"We're ready to get to work," Geno Alessandrini, business manager of the Michigan Laborers' District Council said, while acknowledging reports that the Rover will support 10,000 construction jobs. "A lot of the work for construction will go to our members, who are highly skilled and uphold the highest safety standards on our work sites. We're excited to get to work on the Rover Pipeline, and get the job done right."

Some construction workers may be hired locally, while others who come from out of state may decide that they like the area enough to stay. Tyler County not only offers family-friendly communities in places like Sistersville and Middlebourne, but a high quality education system.

So when you see pipeline workers and natural gas industry people from out-of-town, be sure to give them a warm welcome.

Rover Pipeline has the potential to jump start our local economy, and bring some much needed revenue to our area.